Investigating how sex differences affect immune responses in viral infections
Official title: Sex Differences in NK Cells Mediated by X-linked UTX
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11110743 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how men and women respond differently to viral infections, especially focusing on a type of immune cell called natural killer (NK) cells, to help figure out why men have more of these cells but make less of an important immune signal; the goal is to improve treatments for viral infections based on whether someone is male or female.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | July 7, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $90,776 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AI174519-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110743 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced viral infections, particularly those affected by human cytomegalovirus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have viral infections or those with conditions unrelated to immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the differences in immune responses to viral infections between males and females, focusing on natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial for fighting off viruses like human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). The study examines how the X-linked gene UTX influences the number and function of NK cells, particularly looking at why males, despite having more NK cells, produce less of a key immune signaling molecule called IFN-γ. By using both mouse models and human samples, the researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these sex-based differences in immune responses. This could lead to a better understanding of how to tailor treatments for viral infections based on sex.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for viral infections that take into account sex differences in immune responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding sex differences in immune responses can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
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University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Su, Maureen a — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Su, Maureen a
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.